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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Swelling In The Lower Legs?

My feet and lower legs have been swelling for some time, during daytime. Sometimes various areas of my feet also feel strange . I m not sure if I am experiencing numbness or if this may be how a swollen foot might feel. I am 78 yrs old, 5 3 , and weigh @170 lbs. I have diagnosed osteoarthritis, and DJD which has resulted in 2 complete shoulder replacements and a knee replacement is due this spring. Also have significant deterioration in my lower lumbar area which is why it is difficult to stand for very long. Yes, I lead a sedentary life style, and admittedly need more exercise and am making some plans to do so. But ... this swelling is beginning to concern me. Last summer my doctor said it was probably heat related. It is now the dead of winter and has become almost constant. Am trying this website as he has retired and don t have a new doctor yet. I know I will have to do so soon... but in the meantime, your thoughts?
posted on Thu, 5 Jan 2017
Twitter Wed, 19 Dec 2018 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 21 Dec 2018 Last reviewed on
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi,

Well, there are several possible causes. This may be a beginning of leg cellulitis which is inflammation of subcutaneous tissues and may develop into diabetic foot or even diabetic gangrene so any swelling, redness or pain in legs in someone who has diabetes should be evaluated by medical professionals since antibiotics may have to be started as soon as possible to prevent spreading of infection. He should do at least basic blood tests and blood sugar to see if there is significant infection or not. Other causes include deep vein thrombosis or lymph edema and these should be checked with an ultrasound exam.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Ivan R. Rommstein,
General Surgeon
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What Causes Swelling In The Lower Legs?

Hi, Well, there are several possible causes. This may be a beginning of leg cellulitis which is inflammation of subcutaneous tissues and may develop into diabetic foot or even diabetic gangrene so any swelling, redness or pain in legs in someone who has diabetes should be evaluated by medical professionals since antibiotics may have to be started as soon as possible to prevent spreading of infection. He should do at least basic blood tests and blood sugar to see if there is significant infection or not. Other causes include deep vein thrombosis or lymph edema and these should be checked with an ultrasound exam. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Ivan R. Rommstein, General Surgeon